Ovarian Cancer Australia Launches Research Partnership

Ovarian Cancer Australia today launched a significant new partnership to raise funds for research into ovarian cancer.

"Ovarian Cancer Australia will commence fundraising for the prestigious Australian Ovarian Cancer Study," announced Ovarian Cancer Australia CEO, Karen Livingstone.

Ovarian Cancer Australia has often been approached as a potential recipient of research funding but has instead focused on its unique work in promoting awareness of ovarian cancer and providing support to women affected by this disease.

"We are now expanding the work of our organisation and from today will also collect funds for research into ovarian cancer," said Ms Livingstone.

"As a national organisation we wanted to work with a research partner with a similar national approach and therefore the Board of Ovarian Cancer Australia was unanimous in its decision to support The Australian Ovarian Cancer Study. It is the only national ovarian cancer research program in Australia and one with a prominent international reputation."

"AOCS is delighted to partner with Ovarian Cancer Australia, which has been a wonderful advocate for women with ovarian cancer and has raised awareness of the disease.  Patient advocacy and involvement in research is critical if we are to make progress against this debilitating disease." said Professor David Bowtell , Director, Research Division Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Principal Investigator of the Australian Ovarian Cancer Study.

The Australian Ovarian Cancer Study (AOCS) commenced in 2001 as an initiative by researchers at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, University of Melbourne, Queensland Institute of Medical Research and Sydney's Westmead Institute for Cancer Research and is a collaborative research program between clinicians, scientists, patients and advocacy groups aimed at improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer.

The study set out to create a uniquely powerful resource for ovarian cancer research comprising bio-specimens, clinical and epidemiological data. Around 2500 Australian women with ovarian cancer and 1000 without cancer have since participated in the study and AOCS now has the largest ovarian cancer tumour bank in the southern hemisphere, if not the world, with international research consortia now approaching AOCS to access samples for research.

Ovarian Cancer Australia is the peak organisation for ovarian cancer in Australia and the only consumer network for women and their families coming to grips with ovarian cancer. Our programs are focused on: promoting awareness of ovarian cancer and its symptoms in the community; providing support and resources to women and their networks affected by ovarian cancer; and campaigning on their behalf to enhance the outlook for ovarian cancer patients through improved diagnosis, care and treatment.

For more information or to speak to Karen Livingstone call 1300 660 334or email admin@ovariancancer.net.au